James Brent Anderson, PhD, departed this world on Friday, May 13, 2022, after battling a rare lung disease for several years. Jim was born on April 10, 1950, in Waterbury, CT, the eldest son of the late Gordon and Irene (Gustafson) Anderson. He grew up in Naugatuck, CT, but was a long term resident of Mystic. On September 9, 1978, he married Carol Anderson, PhD. He is survived by his wife, brother Thomas Anderson, M.D. and partner Sharon Samela of Cheshire, CT, sister Jeanne Anderson, PhD, and her husband Jonathan March, D.O., of Newbury, MA, and two nephews, Galen and Erik March.
Jim was a graduate of Naugatuck High School, class of 1968. He received a BS degree in physics from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1972 and went on to earn a master’s degree and PhD from the University of Connecticut, where he was co-author of thirty peer-reviewed scientific articles in the field of x-ray crystallography.
After graduate school, he worked as a securities analyst for Advest, looking particularly at biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. While there, he co-authored a feature article in Barron’s magazine on the future of biotechnology. He later worked for Travelers Insurance, managing their venture capital portfolio.
After retirement, Jim served as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of Connecticut, where he conducted research on the structure of protein molecules.
He was active in two non-profit organizations, Connecticut Landmarks and the Groton Open Space Association where he served on the board of directors. He was an active tournament bridge player, achieving the rank of Bronze Life Master. Committed and involved in Mystic events, Jim was a fair and balanced member of the controversial John Mason Statue Committee, which continues to make headlines to this day.
Jim was an early conservationist and avid student of the natural world, with a keen interest in the weather. Hurricanes, blizzards, floods, droughts; he predicted the forecast before the Weather Channel and was nearly always right. Relishing a good road trip, particularly through the Southern states, Jim also made numerous treks following his beloved UCONN Huskies to yet another glorious Final Four.
Above all, Jim was a true gentleman and a scholar. A steadfast and loyal friend, he could be counted on to lend a hand in any situation. As a gracious and congenial host, Jim’s annual Belmont Stakes party was an event not to be missed. For all that you have been to so many, Jim; cheers to a glass of Woodford Reserve with a fond farewell.
Calling hours will be Saturday, May 21, from 9 to 10:30am at the Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Mystic, CT. Burial will be private.
Donations in his memory may be made to UCONN Foundation, 2390 Alumni Drive, Storrs CT 06269 ATTN: Office of Principal and Planned Gifts or at www.foundation.uconn.edu.
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